Start up after long hibernation

[yamahlr]

Getting ready to start HOTRAM after a long hibernation due to work demands and wife's recovery. Sleeps in temp. controlled garage. Better to crank engine by hand or with starter etc... Also oil is fresh quality synthetic + factory filter but been in there a while. Better to change before starting or after it has been run? What is the consensus guys?

[geezer101]

If it's been garaged in a near constant temp and the oil is fresh, I'd leave the oil alone. Maybe pull the plugs and give each cylinder a little shot of oil so the upper cylinders aren't completely dry before cranking. I think the main issue will fuel stability. Fuel technically only has a storage life of 30 days before it starts to degrade plus it no doubt has had a go at absorbing moisture from the air. I think key starting will be fine.

[pennyman1]

the fuel will be fine if you run the Sta-Bil marine ethanol formula - it negates the ethanol breakdown issue and makes the gas last for 1 year or more

[BradMph]

For non ethanol fuels also, you can check this link. https://www.pure-gas.org/

[tortron]

Personally i would pull the plugs and squirt some upper cylinder lube down the cylinders. Then turn it over a few times to see if theres oil pressure.

[yamahlr]

Thanks, after my wife got sick, I drained fuel. I will pull the plugs and lube top end.